What Is Crataegus Monogyna Leaf Extract?
Crataegus Monogyna Leaf Extract comes from the leaves of the common hawthorn tree, a small flowering member of the rose family found across Europe, North Africa and Western Asia. The leaves are rich in plant compounds such as flavonoids (including vitexin and hyperoside) and oligomeric procyanidins that act as natural antioxidants. Hawthorn has a long folk history in teas and tonics, and its soothing reputation eventually caught the attention of skin-care formulators looking for gentle, plant based ingredients.
To make the cosmetic grade extract, freshly collected or carefully dried leaves are milled then soaked in a food grade solvent like water, glycerin or a mix of water and propylene glycol. The liquid is filtered and concentrated, yielding a clear to amber solution that can be standardized for a consistent level of active compounds. The finished extract blends easily into water based phases of cosmetic products.
You will most often see Crataegus Monogyna Leaf Extract in toners, hydrating serums, daily moisturizers, calming masks, after sun lotions and anti-aging eye treatments where a lightweight, soothing plant ingredient is desired.
Crataegus Monogyna Leaf Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin-care formulas Crataegus Monogyna Leaf Extract serves one main role:
Skin conditioning: The leaf compounds help soften and smooth the skin surface while supporting its natural moisture balance. Antioxidant flavonoids can reduce the look of dull, tired skin caused by everyday environmental stress. Because the extract is mild and non-sensitizing it fits well in products aimed at sensitive or mature skin, adding a boost of comfort without heaviness.
Who Can Use Crataegus Monogyna Leaf Extract
This leaf extract is gentle enough for most skin types, including normal, dry, oily and combination. Its soothing nature makes it a nice choice for sensitive or redness-prone skin, while the lightweight texture keeps it from feeling heavy on oily complexions. There are no known reasons it would be unsuitable for any particular skin type, though very reactive skin should still watch for any individual sensitivities to botanicals.
The ingredient is plant derived with no animal by-products, so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
Current research shows no specific concerns for topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a quick chat with a healthcare professional before adding new skincare.
Crataegus Monogyna Leaf Extract does not make skin more prone to sunburn and does not interfere with sunscreen performance. As with any skincare ingredient, store finished products away from direct sunlight and extreme heat to keep them stable.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any plant extract can vary from person to person. The points below cover potential side effects of Crataegus Monogyna Leaf Extract when used on the skin. These reactions are uncommon and most people will not experience them when using a well-formulated product.
- Mild redness or stinging
- Itching in very sensitive individuals
- Rare allergic contact dermatitis in those allergic to hawthorn or related plants in the rose family
If irritation or any other uncomfortable reaction occurs stop use and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0/5
Crataegus Monogyna Leaf Extract is water soluble and used at low concentrations, so it does not leave an oily film or block pores. The flavonoid-rich liquid absorbs quickly and sits lightly on the skin, earning it a non-comedogenic score.
This means it is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Formulators often pair the extract with similarly lightweight ingredients like glycerin or aloe, keeping finished products friendly to congested or oily complexions.
Summary
Crataegus Monogyna Leaf Extract conditions skin by delivering antioxidants that help fend off dullness and by supporting the skin’s natural moisture balance. Its gentle profile and quick absorption make it a quiet multitasker in toners, serums and moisturizers aimed at soothing or hydrating without heaviness.
While not the most famous botanical on the market, hawthorn leaf has a steady presence in formulas targeting sensitive or mature skin where a calm non-greasy feel is prized.
Topically it is considered very safe with few reported reactions. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to perform a quick patch test when trying a product that features this extract to confirm personal compatibility.